Supporting the Community: Dubai’s New CLPD Credits for Pro Bono Legal Work

On 31st October 2024, the Government of Dubai Legal Affairs Department issued Administrative Resolution No. 29 of 2024 (“Resolution”), marking a milestone in the integration of voluntary legal services within the Continuing Legal Professional Development (“CLPD”) program.

By accrediting pro bono work as a recognised CLPD activity, the Dubai Authorities demonstrate their commitment to both community welfare and professional excellence within the legal sector. Effective for the 2024 and 2025 filing periods, this Resolution not only allows Legal Consultants to meet their CLPD requirements through service to the public but also enhances access to legal resources for communities across the Emirate.

Key Aspects of the Resolution

• The Resolution allows Legal Consultants registered with the Dubai Legal Affairs Department to count voluntary legal services towards their annual CLPD requirements. This service must be provided free of charge to the public and managed through a smart platform established by the Department, ensuring that services are conducted in an organised and compliant manner.
• Under the new guidelines, one CLPD point will be awarded for every four completed voluntary legal services, with a maximum of four points permitted per filing period. This cap ensures that Legal Consultants maintain a balanced approach between community service and other professional development activities, while also encouraging consistent public contributions.
• The Resolution supersedes any conflicting provisions from prior resolutions, taking effect immediately and extending through the 2024 and 2025 CLPD filing periods.

Horizons & Co. - Leading with Purpose and Contribution

In alignment with this forward-thinking initiative, our law firm is fully committed to actively contributing to Dubai’s vision of increased access to legal support. We view this program as an exceptional opportunity to integrate public service within our professional development strategy, allowing our Legal Consultants to directly support individuals and communities that may otherwise have limited access to legal resources. By contributing to the program, our firm not only meets our CLPD obligations but also embraces a model of community-focused law that prioritises accessibility, equity, and public benefit.

Our team is able to provide guidance and assistance across an impressive range of legal issues, meaning we will be able to reinforce Dubai’s legal support framework while deepening our social engagement. As voluntary legal services become an accredited pathway for development, we are eager to make a meaningful impact and demonstrate the powerful role that legal expertise can play in in benefiting individuals and groups and enhancing communities.

Conclusion

Administrative Resolution No. 29 of 2024 represents an innovative approach to professional growth and community service in Dubai’s legal sector. By promoting voluntary legal services within the CLPD framework, Dubai is setting a new standard for legal professionals, combining expertise with a commitment to public good. Our firm is honoured to be part of this initiative and looks forward to actively contributing to a more accessible and inclusive legal environment.